US and UK Conduct Airstrikes Against Iran-backed Houthi Militants in Yemen
The U.S. and U.K. launched airstrikes against Houthi militants in Yemen with the aim of protecting ships in the Red Sea.
Joint Airstrikes Target Houthi Militants in Yemen
The United States and the United Kingdom carried out airstrikes against eight targets in Yemen on Monday. The strikes were aimed at stopping Iran-backed Houthi militants from attacking ships in the Red Sea. The White House has emphasized the effectiveness of the retaliatory airstrikes, despite continued Houthi attacks.
In a joint statement, the governments of the U.S., U.K., Australia, Bahrain, Canada, and the Netherlands explained that the airstrikes were conducted in response to the Houthis' ongoing attacks on international and commercial shipping. These precision strikes were specifically aimed at disrupting and degrading the capabilities of the Houthis that pose a threat to global trade and innocent mariners. The statement further highlighted the Houthi actions that led to these strikes, including their attacks on U.S.-owned merchant vessels.
The targets of the airstrikes included a Houthi underground storage site, as well as locations related to their missile and air surveillance capabilities. The strikes were part of an ongoing effort to restore stability and de-escalate tensions in the region. However, the statement made it clear that the countries involved will not hesitate to defend lives and maintain the free flow of commerce through the critical waterways in the Red Sea.
Continued Houthi Attacks and Earlier Airstrikes
Despite the airstrikes, the Houthi militants have not stopped launching missiles and drones at commercial ships in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. These attacks have now exceeded 30 since mid-November. Last week, two U.S.-owned vessels were struck by Houthi attacks, resulting in minor damage but no injuries.
Prior to Monday's joint airstrikes, the U.S. had already conducted five smaller-scale airstrikes targeting Houthi missile sites. These strikes were aimed at preventing imminent launches targeting commercial vessels or U.S. Navy ships. However, it is clear that these actions have not deterred the Houthis from continuing their aggressive actions.
President Joe Biden recently discussed the Houthi threat with British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to freedom of navigation, international commerce, and the defense of mariners from unjustifiable attacks. The conversation also encompassed the importance of humanitarian aid, civilian protection in Gaza, and support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.
